Red-flanked Duiker

To capture high-quality footage of the Red-flanked Duiker, camera height is the most critical factor. Because these animals stand only about a foot tall at the shoulder, your camera should be mounted very low—ideally 12 to 18 inches off the ground. If the camera is mounted at human waist height, you will likely only capture the top of their backs or miss them entirely due to the narrow detection zone of many PIR sensors at close range.

Focus your efforts on 'edge' habitats where thick cover meets more open foraging areas. Look for 'game trails' that look like small tunnels through the brush; these are the duiker’s primary highways. Placing a camera near a known water source or beneath a fruiting tree (such as a wild fig) is the most effective way to guarantee a sighting. Because they are diurnal, you don't need to worry as much about high-end infrared flash, but a fast trigger speed is essential as they tend to move quickly through open patches.

If you are using a camera with video capabilities, set it to record 15-20 second clips. This often allows you to see the animal's fascinating scent-marking behavior, where they press the side of their face against a twig. Avoid using heavy scents or lures that aren't fruit-based, as these shy creatures are easily spooked by foreign smells. Instead, clearing a small 3-foot 'stage' in front of the camera of crunchy leaves can help ensure the animal pauses long enough for the sensor to trigger.

Lastly, consider the sun's position. Since they are most active in the early morning and late afternoon, try to face your camera North or South to avoid the heavy backlighting or lens flare that occurs when the sun is low on the horizon. This will ensure the vibrant reddish-orange of their coat and the signature blue dorsal stripe are clearly visible in your shots.